Tagged: styling a slouchy saddle bag with a leopard blouse, flare jeans, and a faux-fur jacket

In my blog post on Monday I mentioned that – after an unintentional post-Christmas shopping “drought” – there would be a couple of new purchases (yep, they finally happened!) I’d be sharing with you over the course of the next few weeks. But apparently I couldn’t wait more than a few days…’cause it’s only Thursday and here I am already showing off one of them!!

I found this slouchy saddle bag when I drifted from the housewares department of Winners – which was where all my attention had been focused lately – to the fashion department. While it has no discernible label, it’s genuine Italian leather…and just like my footwear, I always prefer leather products when it comes to my bag (and belt and glove) choices. Accessories can sometimes take a beating, and real leather is simply more durable than the average synthetic iteration. And it ages so muchmore gracefully, too; slightly scuffed and scraped-up leather still looks cool…but scuffed faux leather will never look anything but tacky and cheap.

This was actually the first time out for my leopard-patterned blouse as well…even though it’s technically not a “new” piece. I think it’s been waiting in my wardrobe to make its debut since last summer!! Conventional wisdom tells us that if we haven’t worn something within six months, we’re unlikely to ever wear it; but personally?? I’ve haven’t found that to be true. I’ve often brought home a purchase and left it to “mellow” in my closet for an extended period before working it into an outfit combination.

Actually, waiting a while to wear something new is a pretty nifty trick for making that must-have piece you’ve fallen in love with – but that you’re currently seeing everywhere – feel fresh and exciting again. And if you think occasionally shopping your own closet is a good way to go, could it get any better than finding a piece with its tags still on just waiting for you to (re)discover it?! 😉